Even as the NCP-led Meghalaya Progressive Alliance (MPA) was waiting for the Supreme Court decision on its petition challenging the installation of a “minority Congress Government” by Governor S S Sidhu, Chief Minister D D Lapang, who heads the Congress-led Meghalaya United Alliance (MUA), expanded his Cabinet by inducting seven ministers on Wednesday.Governor Sidhu administered the oath of office and secrecy to Deputy Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, Cabinet Ministers Prestone Tyngsong, Martin M Danggo, Roytre Chistopher Laloo — all Congress legislators — and Independent MLA A T Mondal as well as Ministers of State Limison Sangma and Ismail R Marak, both Independent MLAs. The swearing-in ceremony was boycotted by the MPA.Former Lok Sabha Speaker and NCP leader Purno A Sangma called the move “unethical” and said the Congress had failed to act with dignity as the matter was still pending before the Supreme Court. “Instead of respecting the constitutional propriety, the Congress is showing its desperation,” Sangma told The Indian Express. He said a “panicky” Congress was trying to lure away Independent legislators, adding that this was a dangerous trend for democracy.Immediately after the swearing-in, Lapang said he would allocate the remaining ministerial berths on a first-come first-serve basis to parties and individuals who join the MUA Government. Asked how he expanded his Cabinet as he was heading a minority Government, the Chief Minister shot back: “I have the majority and I will prove it on the floor of the House.” Lapang, however, said he would step down if the Supreme Court directs him to. “But let the court first say that I am heading a minority Government”. The Chief Minister said negotiations were on with other political parties and “individuals”, adding that he was confident of securing a majority. Governor Sidhu refused to comment further on the issue. Despite its 25 MLAs and the three Independents, the Congress is still two legislators short of a simple majority in the House which has an effective strength of 59. Election to the Baghmara constituency will be held on March 22.
